The Benson family is always staying busy in what is a fast but rewarding life — great careers, active kids, fun cars, dear friends in the neighborhood, and a passion to pay it forward.  

Ashley and Eric Benson, along with their two sons, Cooper and Kaden, are often associated with the many charity events they host. You’ve likely heard of Cars in the Commons— the car show previously held in the Norton Commons North Village.  The Benson family started the event during the pandemic in 2020. Last year, Cars in the Commons raised over $40,000 for three local charities. “It was a big year, but our goal is to double that in 2025,” Ashley said.

RCR Events, the company Ashley and Eric own, has decided to host the event at their dream location in 2025.  Eric says "I'd like to share the news with my Glen Oaks neighbors first!  We are proud and excited to announce that ‘Cars in the Commonwealth’ will be held at the famous Hermitage Farms on July 26, 2025".  Car fanatics can expect the same wide variety of cars, charitable giving opportunities, delicious food, local vendors, VIP experiences, and easy access to shuttles, shade, & horsepower.  “We can't wait to share the incredible day we have planned with you".  

In addition to creating fun family events, Eric serves as a Senior Vice President at Bank of America. He leads the Community Lending program nationally and has a seat on the local market leadership team.  Eric noted, "2025 is going to be a great year for cars, charity & Banking here locally".  Ashley has been a CRNA locally for over 10 years.  The desire to work in a level 1 trauma hospital led her to Louisville years ago after completing her nurse anesthesia degree at the University of Cincinnati.  The roots have now been placed and she loves this city and our community.  

The Benson boys, Kaden, 20, and Cooper, 18, are the reason the family moved to Glen Oaks.  “We moved to the neighborhood in 2020 because the boys had friends here, and we were constantly driving ‘in town’ from Goshen,” Ashley explained. “We love being able to have their friends at our house and being closer to the city without losing privacy. We love it here.”  

Kaden graduated from North Oldham High School in 2021 and is on track to earn a degree in Gas Welding Technology next summer.  He shares a love of all things cars with his dad.  Cooper is enjoying his senior year at North Oldham. If he's not working at Kroger, he's golfing at Glen Oaks or hanging out with his friends. The youngest Benson plans to attend the University of Kentucky next fall.  

Rounding out the Benson family are their two cuddly, sweet cats, Waldon and Peaches. “Waldon is a grumpy-looking old man that Ashley picked up from a shelter in 2011,” Eric said, “while Peaches is a middle-aged girl that had a rough life before we found her as a stray in Ohio.”  

The Benson family loves many aspects of the Glen Oaks neighborhood, including the pool. “We love popping in for a quick swim after work or a lazy Sunday afternoon,” Ashley said. “We make sure we keep our membership every year and support the concession stand with buckets of beverages every chance we get.” The Bensons also get a kick out of sitting on their back deck watching golfers search their yard for wayward shots. But most of all, they love being able to have the boys and their friends at the house. “Hearing their laughter and having a fun space for them to hang out is all we’ve ever wanted.”

In addition to Cars in the Commonwealth, the Bensons also host the incredibly popular RADrevival Show in the Paristown Arts District. The October event embraces and celebrates the 80s and 90s through cars, costumes, music, and good vibes.  This year’s highlight was the addition of BMX Superstar Mat Hoffman and current X-Games star Zach Newman. The Benson family works year-round to put on fun and engaging events for car enthusiasts and to raise money for charity. The charity closest to their hearts is called The First Car Project. The non-profit helps Kentucky foster youth get behind the wheel of their first car. "Each year, thousands of young adults age out of foster care, often without the support systems many take for granted. For these youth, a car isn't just a convenience, it’s a lifeline to education, employment, and independence. Your support can help provide a life-changing resource: their first car." Ashley said.  The Bensons are hoping you’re inspired to join their efforts. “We accept cars, cash, and passion partners throughout the entire year,” Ashley said. The First Car Project is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Donate or find out more information at www.thefirstcarproject.com. Oh, and if you have extra storage for all of these cars, they’ll take that, too!